The expatriate library director

Abstract

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to provide library managers with information about what to expect if they are considering a post in another country. It challenges a suggestion that a senior manager's major value is their local network. Rather, the skills, experience, culture and attitude, as well as networks, can contribute to a successful career in another country. Design/methodology/approach – The paper provides an example of an Australian expatriate senior library manager who took up a post in the United Kingdom. It draws upon literature on cultural differences and knowledge transfer across international borders. Findings – The paper provides an example of a successful transfer of management knowledge to a new country, highlighting actions taken to form a new management team. Also provides practical advice on personal and social matters that have to be addressed for the relocation to be successful. Practical implications – Leadership, good management, and an awareness of, and sensitivity to, cultural differences are required for a successful transfer of management knowledge. At a senior level, it is not so much about expertise in librarianship, but management and leadership that are important. Originality/value – The paper provides a positive example of an expatriate senior library manager moving to a new country. It will be of interest to anyone contemplating an international professional relocation.

Academic Leadership And Organizational Commitment In Public Universities Of Malaysia

“…Good management provides the framework from which to launch successful leadership strategies with a sense of order and consistency (Gokenbach, 2003). Further, good management condones the successful transfer of management knowledge (McKnight, 2007). Effective leadership is expected to produce a desired or intended result as determined by the organization's objectives.…”

Identifying Customer Expectations is Key to Evidence Based Service Delivery

“…Library staff observe, and then actively participate in, the telling of stories within the library service; the linking of actions to the defined values and irritants of customers; the positioning required for a change of culture placing the customer at the centre of the library service. They begin to acknowledge that customer experiences and perceptions are their reality (McKnight, 2007b). Customers' narratives thus become powerful enablers in imbuing hard data with context, significance and meaning to inform library decisions on the development of appropriate services (Brophy, 2004).…”

The Value of International Experience

“…The authors recalled their original motivations for seeking overseas assignments and then explored differences and similarities in management styles and library operations, as well as their challenges with the new culture and language. Similarly, while exploring transferability of management knowledge across borders, McKnight (2007) recounted her experiences as an expatriate library director in the United Kingdom and provided practical advice for others contemplating an international relocation. Although not specific to librarians.…”